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Suzuki shows power, eco sides with Kizashi concepts at New York auto show

April 18, 2011

1 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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2 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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3 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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4 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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5 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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6 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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7 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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8 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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9 of 9Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept

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Suzuki appeals to both the eco-conscious and the power-hungry with concepts based on the Kizashi sedan for the New York auto show.The cars are the hybrid EcoCharge concept and the more powerful Apex concept.

A gasoline-electric version of the Kizashi, the EcoCharge boasts a 25 percent increase in highway fuel economy over the regular Kizashi.

"Our basic concept was to attain sustainable gains in fuel economy without the traditional sacrifices in driveability required with today's midsize hybrid sedans," said Steve Younan, director of automotive marketing and product planning for American Suzuki Motor Corp.

The Kizashi EcoCharge concept comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a liquid-cooled 15-kilowatt motor/generator and a 115-volt lithium-ion battery. The combo makes for a vehicle that is fuel efficient but doesn't drag during acceleration, Suzuki says. The car makes 144 hp.

Fuel-saving efforts include regenerative braking, automatic engine shut-off when the car comes to a stop and fuel cut-off during deceleration. The exterior gets special treatment with LED fog lights and different headlamps. The interior uses eco-friendly fabrics.

The Suzuki Kizashi Apex Concept cranks up to 300 hp from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Those more concerned with force than fuel-economy will be pulled to the Apex Concept, which brings the Kizashi into the 275-300 horsepower range with a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, air-to-liquid intercooler and electronic boost control. This powertrain is matched with a six-speed manual transmission.

Styling on the Apex Concept is based on the Suzuki superbike race design theme, with a new lower fascia, high-intensity headlamps, customized LED foglamps and lightweight alloy performance wheels. The cabin is swathed in black leather with blue Alcantara accents.

"The Kizashi Apex Concept will further elevate our flagship sedan in the U.S. among enthusiasts who crave added power and performance," said Younan.